The Atlantic blog: ARC?

18/11 Position: 28°7´24"N 15°25´30"W

So what exactly are we doing here in Las Palmas and why is everyone gathering here? The Atlantic can be a dangerous place, if something happens there is very little help to call for, and unfortunately there is quite a lot that can happen. ARC, the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, is an organization that in 1986, exactly 30 years ago, wanted to make the Atlantic a safer place for the lone sailor. Take away the loneliness and create a community that can help in the event of an accident.

The gathering in Las Palmas starts in early November and until November 22nd the schedule is packed with preparatory lectures on weather, wind, rigging and safety on board combined with evening festivities. It is a sailor's paradise! To date, 5608 sailboats and 26265 happy sailors have crossed the Atlantic with ARC and there are about 300 boats a year that take on the same challenge. It's an exciting group of people. Families, racers, older couples and solo sailors who all share the same joy of sailing and you feel a sense of community with people you've never met before.

I have picked up my passport card for all activities and More Sailing has embroidered really nice crew shirts. We have 4 exciting days ahead of us that I am very much looking forward to, I promise to keep you updated!

Mathias

(photo by: Mathias Edberg)